Best Lyon County Grants for Nonprofits in Iowa

The Mobilize Power Fund Grant, offered by the Third Wave Fund, supports youth-led gender justice activism. This rapid response fund targets organizations led by young women of color and LGBTQ+ youth, providing up to $10,000 for urgent needs. It prioritizes groups addressing recent incidents that threaten their work, fostering community power and leadership. Organizations with budgets under $500,000 can apply, aiming for impactful, time-sensitive initiatives that promote social change.

The Jim Henson Foundation offers annual grants for innovative contemporary puppet theater works, with three categories: Workshop Grants ($3,000), Production Grants ($7,000), and Family Grants ($4,000). These grants support puppet creation and performance, encouraging artistic excellence. Eligibility is primarily for IRS tax-exempt organizations, with individual artists needing a fiscal sponsor. International collaborations are welcome if the primary artist is a U.S. citizen. Grants are not available for projects based outside the U.S. or for non-puppet related activities.

The Alfred P. Sloan Economics Grant Program aims to provide essential public goods through innovative research that enhances U.S. economic progress. With a focus on equity and technological advancement, the program supports projects addressing pressing economic issues, such as competitiveness, regional development, and the economics of caregiving. By fostering rigorous, unbiased research, the foundation seeks to empower communities and inform policy, ultimately improving quality of life across the nation.

The STEM Higher Education Grant Program, funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, aims to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM graduate education. The program focuses on transforming educational pathways, empowering universities, and supporting innovative initiatives that cultivate a diverse faculty body. By addressing systemic barriers and promoting inclusive environments, the Foundation seeks to ensure that all students have equitable opportunities to succeed in STEM fields, ultimately strengthening the scientific enterprise.

The National MS Society offers annual Research Grants for investigator-initiated proposals addressing key research questions from the Pathways to MS Cures Roadmap. These grants support diverse studies, including clinical and nonclinical research aimed at stopping MS disease activity, restoring function, and preventing new cases. Eligible applicants must hold an M.D. or Ph.D. and demonstrate relevance to the Society's research priorities. This funding opportunity promotes collaboration and focuses on underserved MS populations.

The Global Health and Wellbeing Grantmaking program by Coefficient Giving focuses on addressing critical health and welfare issues worldwide. With an emphasis on proactive engagement and evidence-based solutions, the initiative supports projects that improve health outcomes and wellbeing. The program prioritizes funding for organizations tackling neglected global health challenges, advocating for effective philanthropy, and enhancing the lives of both humans and animals in vulnerable communities.

Sun Life’s Health Access Grant Program aims to enhance access to health services, specifically targeting diabetes and oral health in local communities. With funding options ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, this program supports 501(c)(3) charities focused on diabetes prevention, management, and oral health care. By fostering access to essential health services, Sun Life is committed to building healthier communities and addressing health disparities faced by underprivileged populations.

Nestlé Purina offers pet food donations and disaster relief primarily to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt pet welfare organizations in the U.S. Their commitment includes supplying food and litter to over 900 organizations, reflecting their dedication to the well-being of pets and communities. Purina also assists during natural disasters, providing essential support to pets in distress. Organizations interested must ensure eligibility and can expect a decision within 10 business days after application submission.

The William L. and Diane C. Wilson Scholarship for Karst Science, established in 2002, honors the legacy of William L. Wilson and aims to support innovative karst scientists. Funded by Diane C. Wilson, it provides a one-time award of $2,500 and recognition at the KWI spring banquet. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a master's program focused on karst science and its subfields, while PhD students are excluded. This scholarship fosters the growth of new talent in karst research.

The JAMS Foundation / NAFCM Mini-Grant Program offers funding to support innovative community mediation programs that foster sustainability and growth. This initiative emphasizes conflict resolution training for local leaders, enabling them to effectively address community issues. Through structured peer interactions, grantees share best practices and insights. Resources generated by the program are freely accessible to enhance the wider community mediation field, ensuring shared knowledge and enhanced practices across the nation.

A Little HOPE, Inc. is a charitable foundation that provides grants to organizations offering bereavement support services and grief counseling for children and young adults who have lost a loved one. The grant amounts vary based on project scope and budget. Applications are by invitation only, sent out each October, and interested organizations should submit an email with necessary details for consideration.

The Samull Classroom Herb Garden Grant, established through a generous donation from Donald Samull, supports elementary classrooms (grades K-6) with at least ten students to create herb gardens. Grants of $500 are awarded annually to enhance curricula with hands-on learning experiences about herbs. Eligible classrooms may use funds for plants and necessary supplies like soil and tools. Applications are reviewed by a committee, ensuring equitable access to these educational resources.

The Swantz Family Foundation Grant aims to support innovative nonprofit organizations that reconnect young people with nature. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, and grants are typically awarded for one year, with some exceptions for multi-year funding. Recipients are required to submit a final report detailing project activities and the use of funds within 12 months. The foundation may recover funds if misused, ensuring accountability and effective use of resources.

The New York Life Foundation Grief Reach Grants aim to enhance the capacity of nonprofit organizations serving grieving children. This program, offered in partnership with the National Alliance for Children's Grief, provides $15,000 grants over one year to support internal improvements like organizational development and strategic collaborations. The initiative focuses on strengthening infrastructure and sustainability, ensuring that children have the resources they need to cope with loss effectively.

The Emergent Fund Grant, established in 2016, supports BIPOC-led social justice movements through rapid response funding. It addresses urgent community needs by providing low-barrier grants to organizations facing crises such as family separation and systemic oppression. The fund prioritizes initiatives that foster Black liberation, multiracial solidarity, and empower communities to build transformative power. By investing in innovative strategies, the Emergent Fund aims to challenge oppressive structures and advance social justice, ensuring that impacted communities are at the forefront of their own advocacy.

The PEDIGREE Foundation: Dogs Rule Grant aims to support innovative initiatives that enhance dog adoption rates in the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation focuses on organizations that improve care for dogs in shelters and rescues. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations with a commitment to creating best practices for increasing adoptions. The program requires a manual or toolkit to be developed and shared with the animal welfare community to ensure sustainability and broader impact.

The Fisher Service Award, sponsored by the Fisher House Foundation and Military Times Foundation, recognizes innovative programs that enhance the lives of military and veteran communities. This annual award allocates $400,000 to top nonprofits, with each winner receiving an additional $50,000 advertising package from Military Times. Organizations must be 501(c) nonprofits and demonstrate the positive impact of their programs on veterans and their families. More details can be found in the FAQ.

The Foundation for Financial Planning provides grants to nonprofit organizations that connect volunteer financial planners with underserved individuals in need of financial guidance. Focused on scalable and sustainable programs, the grants support both established and new initiatives that foster one-on-one relationships between planners and clients. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits and engage Certified Financial Planner professionals to ensure quality advice is accessible to those facing financial crises.

The Step Into Swim initiative aims to increase swimming participation among underserved communities by providing learn-to-swim programs. With over 300,000 swim lessons delivered, the program partners with various organizations to ensure children learn vital water safety skills. Funding is strictly for swim lessons, with a focus on developing safe swimmers who understand essential safety rules. Grants will prioritize facilities with certified pool operators, ensuring quality instruction and community engagement in aquatic activities.

The EEFF Educational Leadership Grant, initiated in 2008 by the Edward E. Ford Foundation, supports innovative proposals from independent schools that aim to impact educational practices nationally. Schools can apply without prior invitations, and grants are awarded based on proposal quality. Eligibility includes serving grades 9-12, having a diverse mission, and a head of school in their third year. The program encourages original thinking and partnerships beyond the school community, aiming for significant, replicable change.

The SBE Postdoctoral Research Fellowships, offered by the National Science Foundation (NSF), are designed to promote early-career independence by supporting research and training goals in the social, behavioral, and economic sciences. Applicants can choose between two tracks: Fundamental Research and Broadening Participation. This initiative addresses significant scientific questions, aligning with NSF's mission to enhance the scientific workforce and foster diversity in research fields.

The Yann Weymouth Graduate Scholarship provides $5,000 and mentorship to a graduate student focusing on sustainability, resilience, wellness, and beauty in design. Administered by the Architects Foundation, candidates must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, be U.S. citizens, and enrolled in a NAAB-accredited architecture program. Previous recipients can reapply. This scholarship honors the legacy of Yann Weymouth, an accomplished architect known for his significant contributions to major design projects.

The Jason Pettigrew Memorial ARE Scholarship, administered by the Architects Foundation, supports emerging architecture professionals by covering costs for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). Open to current Associate AIA members, the scholarship honors Jason Pettigrew's legacy and encourages applicants who demonstrate significant contributions to the profession. Recipients gain financial assistance for exam fees and study materials, aiding their journey toward architectural licensure and fostering a new generation of architects committed to community impact.

The Mockingbird Foundation offers competitive grants for music education for children. Focused on underserved communities, the foundation supports innovative projects that engage children directly through music. Grants are only available for nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, including public schools, in the U.S. The aim is to enhance creative expression and provide music education in unconventional settings. Applications must demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion in their programs.

The AMS Young Scholars Grant Program, offered by the American Mathematical Society, provides grants of up to $15,000 to support summer mathematics programs for talented high school students. Designed to aid established programs, funding should be allocated equally between student scholarships and program expenses. Programs must exist for at least a year, involve a minimum of 20 students, and focus on problem solving or research in mathematics, fostering the next generation of mathematicians.

The Iowa Arts Council offers Art Project Grants for Organizations to foster arts projects that enhance community vitality in Iowa. This program prioritizes innovative and collaborative projects that serve the public and align with the Council's strategic goals. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, and governmental entities. Funding is provided through state appropriations and the National Endowment for the Arts, ensuring support for diverse artistic initiatives. Interested applicants are encouraged to review guidelines and seek assistance well before deadlines.

The Country School Grant Program, part of Iowa's Historical Resource Development Program, offers funding for preserving one-room and two-room school buildings. Grants up to $5,000 are available to various eligible entities, including nonprofits and governmental units. The program emphasizes the importance of Iowa's historical resources, encouraging projects that enhance public education and cultural heritage. With an annual budget of $25,000, it aims to support community development through historical preservation.